Johanna Ella May ErrobaThere are 13 countries that the equator passes through. Although Philippines is not one of those countries, it is, undeniably, one of the hottest countries in the world. The weather and the natural build of our archipelago makes our country one of the top destinations for people who want to get tanned.
However, for Filipinos, the weather has recently become almost unbearable. Halo-halo just won’t do anymore. We now rely on our aircons and shopping malls to keep ourselves cool. But what if I tell you that beaches are not the only places you should visit this summer? Check out these 15 cool places in the Philippines to beat the summer heat.
Also read: 10 Hottest Summer Destinations in the Philippines for Your Next Barkada Trip
Luzon
1. Batanes
Image credit: Krissy Favis
Batanes is probably one of, if not the most expensive destination among all of the places listed below for the reason that you can only get there by riding a plane to Basco or riding boats. And everybody knows how costly it is to travel to Basco. However, because it is the farthest away from the equator, it’s also one of the coolest places in the country. Just make sure that you plan your trip well as getting there is not easy.
Also read: How I Travelled Solo in Batanes for 5 Days with Only PHP 8,000 Budget
2. Batad, Banaue, Ifugao
Image credit: Jon Rawlinson
Batad is a barangay of Banaue Municipality in the province of Ifugao. The most famous tourist attraction there is Batad’s Rice Terraces. Perhaps the coolest area is at the Highest Viewpoint of the terraces. Visitors also include Tappiya Waterfalls as part of their itinerary.
3. Sagada, Mountain Province
Image credit: Camera and Cheese
I can never fully describe the weather in Sagada. The sun is up and shining bright all day, but the air is cool and not humid, unlike most places in the Philippines. I highly recommend going there during Holy Week. My family and I have an inside joke about the place; if you want to repent for your sins and you wish to serve penance, go to Sagada. You’ll know what I’m talking about as soon as you survive spelunking in Sumaguing Cave and the journey to and from Bomod-ok Falls.
4. Mount Pulag, Benguet
Image credit: jojo nicdao
Mountain climbing has been a thing in the Philippines recently and I don’t mean it in a bad way. It is great to see people conquering the highest peaks of our terrain, though there are also some environmental issues that come along with the activity becoming more mainstream. Still, if you are into extreme adventures and also want to go somewhere cool, go to Mount Pulag. You may want to check out Biyaherong Barat’s guide prior to your climb.
5. Baguio City, Benguet
Image credit: Bro. Jeffrey Pioquinto, SJ
Ah, yes. Baguio City is probably one of the most popularly known cold cities in the Philippines. It is often called the Summer Capital of the country. Although it is arguably less cool than before, many still flock to the city to experience the weather. It’s cold that even their mall doesn’t have air conditioning.
Visayas
6. Don Salvador Benedicto, Negros Occidental
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Many people like to call the municipality of Don Salvador Benedicto as the Little Sagada or the Summer Capital of Negros Occidental. It is located in the uplands of the province and it has been blessed with cooler breezes. It also boasts its own rice terraces and Malatan-og or “Cigarette” Falls. Getting there and getting around has proved to be quite challenging as tourism has only begun to boom in the last couple of years. But because of this, it now becomes the perfect place for a road adventure.
7. Canlaon City, Negros Oriental
Image credit: Studphil
If Don Salvador Benedicto is called Little Sagada, Canlaon City is known as the Little Baguio of Negros Oriental. Like many upland destinations, Canlaon City is blessed with its own rice terraces, waterfalls, natural springs and a majestic volcano, Mount Kanlaon.
8. Dalaguete, Cebu
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While many flock to Cebu to enjoy its famous beaches, if you are in need of a place to beat the Cebu heat, visit the foggy hillsides of Dalaguete. Visit Osmeña Peak and you should not miss the cold Obong Springs.
Also read: My South Cebu Trip: 4 Days of Great Adventure with My Barkada
9. Pondol Falls, Almeria, Biliran
My mom’s roots come from Barangay Iyusan, Almeria in the province of Biliran. Very close from their house is one of the coldest waters that I have ever swam in. The best way to go there if you’re coming in from Naval is through a habal-habal. On the way, you will also see beautiful rice terraces. From Iyusan, you can hike for about 20 minutes to get to the Falls.
10. Bugang River, Pandan, Antique
If you are tired of the summer heat from Boracay, you must visit Bugang River. From Caticlan, it will take about 45 minutes to an hour to reach Pandan. Do not waste any minute and try river rafting in Bugang. It was awarded as the cleanest river in the Philippines, not to mention one of the coldest river waters in the country.
Mindanao
11. Malaybalay City, Bukidnon
Image credit: Perry A. Dominguez
Malaybalay is the capital of Bukidnon. It’s one of those cities that are less like Manila and you can feast on so many greens that you can ever see. Although it is not blessed with beaches, it’s perfect for those who are thrill-seekers and who want more adventure as there are many spots where you can hike. As for those who look for more relaxing activities, you can always try their Nasuli Spring.
12. Marawi City, Lanao del Sur
Image credit: Mahid
Marawi City is an Islamic city as it is said to have the highest rate of Muslims compared to other parts of the Philippines. What makes Marawi interesting is that they too have their own culture unique from others. Anywhere you look, you can really tell how deeply embedded their culture is to the people. And the best part, its cool climate as compared to lowland cities in Mindanao.
13. Lake Sebu, South Cotabato
Image credit: I Travel Philippines
Lake Sebu is also known as the Summer Capital of Southern Philippines. What people like to visit in Lake Sebu are the famous seven waterfalls. You can hike to see the falls but you can also take a zipline to get a bird’s eye view while enjoying the cool breeze up in the air.
14. BuDa, Davao City
Image credit: Davao Today
BuDa is short for Bukidnon-Davao Highway. It is famous for its high altitudes and vacation houses. It’s the perfect hideout place when you’re running away from the hustle and bustle of the populated cities. It’s also great for retreats whether you’re alone, with friends, family and your special someone.
15. Lake Agco, Ilomavis, Kidapawan, North Cotabato
Image credit: Kleomarlo
Two to three hours away from Davao City is a hidden paradise in Kidapawan. Lake Agco is dubbed as the Eden of Kidapawan City because of its rich flora and fauna. You can go to Lake Agco Mahomanoy Mountain Resort, which is located right at the foot of Mount Apo. Enjoy the cool air of the mountain resort and take a dip in their mud pools.
Also read: The Ultimate Filipino Traveller’s Bucket List: 101 Challenges You Need to Complete
Wherever you are, I’m sure you can find time to visit one or more of these places this summer. It’s time to let go of your summer bikinis and pack your sweaters!
